How to get a Static IPv4 Address with VPS or Dedicated Servers

A static IPv4 address assists in hosting applications, establishing a VPN(Virtual Private Network), and facilitating smooth remote access. Most broadband ISPs, however, supply dynamic IPs, complicating connections for developers and system administrators.

A Dedicated Server or Virtual Private Server (VPS) will provide you with a static IPv4 address. But which to opt for? Let us examine the options and use cases to assist you in your decision.

Why Do You Need a Static IPv4 Address?

A static IP address is a constant network identifier that does not change between sessions. Here are some key reasons why you should seek static IPs:

1. Enterprise Security Compliance: Many enterprise security teams require developers or vendors to provide a source IP to access internal systems or APIs. For this reason, connecting from the same IP like one provided by a Virtual Private Server with static IP or a dedicated server with IPv4 is critical for whitelisting and firewall access.

2. Consistent DevOps Deployments: CI/CD pipelines often need static IPs for source validation, deployment targets, or webhook communications.

3. Network Device Whitelisting: Cloud providers and private services may require whitelisting of fixed IPs for enhanced security and access control.

5. VPN and Security Benefits: Helps bypass country restrictions, improves privacy, and allows secure remote access.

6. Improved SEO and Email Reputation Management: Using dedicated IPs for websites and email servers prevents blacklisting and enhances search engine ranking.

Most home internet service providers (ISPs) assign dynamic IP addresses through their Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) servers. This poses a challenge if you need stable access for things like remote desktop sessions, self-hosted apps, or VPN configurations. Since dynamic IPs cannot guarantee consistency, many developers and small businesses buy VPS with IPv4 or buy dedicated server with IPv4 address. 

If your current ISP doesn’t offer a static IP or charges too much for it , you are not out of options. Some ISPs do sell static IPs, but the cost can be unreasonable for personal or startup-level use. A smarter alternative is to get an affordable VPS with a static IPv4, which you can use either to host your applications or act as a private VPN endpoint. With an open-source self-hosted VPN (like WireGuard or OpenVPN), you can securely route your traffic through the VPS and enjoy a consistent IP across all your devices. 

VPS vs. Dedicated Server: Which One Should You Choose?

Consider your budget, performance needs, and scalability requirements while choosing between a VPS and a dedicated server.

VPS (Virtual Private Server)

A VPS with a static IPv4 address operates as an isolated segment of a physical server, offering dedicated resources within a virtualized setting. 

1. Cost-effective solution for small-to-medium workloads.
2. Provides a static IPv4 address with complete root access.
3. Ideal for hosting websites, running VPNs, and lightweight applications.
4. Best choice if you need a stable IP but don’t require high computing power.
5. Utilized for VPN hosting with an individual IP in order to not be tracked by the ISP.

For example, if you’re considering a budget-friendly option, get VPS with IPv4 address from Ucartz for affordable plans that include a dedicated static IP.

But, as the physical machine is shared amongst other users, performance may degrade during high demand periods, and resources are limited. Most VPS services come with at least one static IP in your package, which guarantees your services have stable connectivity.

Dedicated Server

A dedicated server with static IP represents the premium tier, offering an entire physical machine for your exclusive use.

1. Offers enhanced security through complete physical isolation.
2. More powerful but expensive compared to a VPS.
3. Provides dedicated hardware resources for high-traffic applications.
4. Supports IPv4 subnet allocation such as /24 subnet VPS or /26 subnet dedicated server.
5. Recommended for large-scale networking, virtualization, and hosting multiple services.

If you require high bandwidth or plan to host many services, consider our Unmanaged Dedicated Servers from Ucartz. Dedicated servers are significantly more expensive and require more technical expertise to manage and maintain. Scaling up involves physical hardware upgrades, which can be complex and time-consuming.

Why IPv4 Is Still in Demand Despite Running Out

Even though IPv4 addresses are exhausted and IPv6 is available, IPv4 is still in high demand. This is mainly because older systems, business needs, and compatibility issues make switching difficult. IPv4 can only support about 4.3 billion devices. That limit was reached in 2011. After that, ICANN (The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) started sharing out the last few blocks and encouraged moving to IPv6.

Switching to IPv6 is expensive and complicated. It requires new hardware, software changes, and trained staff. So, some companies delay the upgrade and instead buy IPv4 addresses or use workarounds like CGNAT.

ICANN supports IPv6 as the future of the internet. But due to cost, effort, and old systems still in use, IPv4 remains popular for now.

Use Cases for a VPS or Dedicated Server with a Static IPv4

1. If Your ISP Does not Provide a Static IP

The home internet connections come with dynamic IPs that change frequently. This creates challenges for users who need consistent addressing for their services. You do not always get a public IP address when using broadband connectivity. Here is why:

a. ISP Uses CGNAT (Carrier-Grade NAT)

Most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) employ CGNAT to allocate a single public IP across multiple subscribers. This assists them in coping with the limited supply of IPv4 addresses but also results in you receiving a private IP rather than a public IP.

b. Private IPs for Security and Cost-Saving

Some ISPs assign private IPs (e.g., 192.168.x.x, 10.x.x.x) to prevent direct access to your network from the internet. This adds a layer of security but prevents hosting services.

c. NAT and Firewalls at ISP Level-h4

Even if you get a public IP, your ISP might use firewalls or NAT rules that restrict incoming traffic, preventing direct access to your home network.

If you are not sure of having a public IP, visit whatismyip.com or ipinfo.io to check your external IP. Compare it with your router’s WAN IP. If they match, there is a public IP.

Establish a VPS with a static IP address and use it as your gateway to the internet. By establishing a VPN tunnel between your home network and this VPS, you can send traffic through the static IP. This setup essentially provides your home services with a permanent address online.The VPS acts as a stable front end while your dynamic IP changes remain invisible to external users connecting to your services. If you need high bandwidth, multiple IPs, or full control, a dedicated server is better.

2. Publish Home Lab Servers to the Internet

For developers and IT enthusiasts with home labs, a VPS with a static IP creates a powerful bridge to the public internet. However, exposing these to the internet requires a stable IP.  Instead of exposing your home network directly, a VPS can help by:

1. Allowing your laptop or workstation to handle heavy workloads, while the VPS manages external traffic.
2. Ensuring better uptime and security compared to a home broadband connection.

This setup provides the perfect balance between accessibility and security. Developers can work on their applications locally using powerful home hardware while exposing only what’s necessary through the VPS’s static IP address. If your home lab runs heavy workloads (e.g., AI, big data, high-performance computing) and security is a concern, dedicated server will be a better option.

3. Dedicated IP for Your VPN Server

Running your own VPN server offers significant advantages for privacy and security. A static IP makes this setup much more reliable:

1. Creates a consistent endpoint that never changes, simplifying configuration.
2. Helps bypass geographic restrictions on content and services.
3. Provides a secure pathway when using public WiFi networks.
4. Enables whitelisting for secure services that restrict access by IP.

If you need a personal or small-business VPN, go for a VPS as it is cheaper, easier to manage, and good enough for most use cases.

Single Static IP

1.VPS with a Static IPv4 Address

A VPS is perfect for small projects. Providers like Ucartz offer plans with static IPs. Prices start at $7 to $10 monthly. You may get a virtual server with dedicated resources. It is ideal for routing traffic or hosting a simple app. The setup is quick and most providers include one static IP by default.

2.Dedicated Server with a Static IPv4 Address

A dedicated server delivers. Ucartz offers unmanaged dedicated servers with static IPs for $49 monthly and can control everything, hardware, software, and IP. It is best for heavy workloads or complex setups. Expect higher costs than a VPS, but the performance justifies it.

Multiple IPs on One Server with Use Cases

Sometimes, one IP is not enough. Multiple IPs on a single server unlock new possibilities. They enhance flexibility and efficiency. Providers like Ucartz offer VPS with multiple IPs or dedicated server with multiple IPs using /24 subnet VPS or /26 subnet dedicated server options. Let’s explore why the use cases.

1. Host Multiple Websites with Dedicated IPs

Running several websites? Assign each a unique IP. Search engines favor sites with dedicated IPs. It signals credibility. Avoid sharing an IP with spammy neighbors. A VPS or dedicated servers with multiple IPs can solve it. Manage all sites from one machine.

2. Run Multiple Services on the Same Port

Imagine hosting a website and a Python app. Both need port 80. With one IP, they clash. Multiple IPs solve this. Assign Apache to one IP and Python to another. Both run smoothly on port 80. A dedicated server with a /26 subnet handles this with ease.

3. Manage Email Servers and IP Reputation

Email servers benefit with multiple IPs. Separate transactional emails (like receipts) to avoid spam blacklisting. Use one IP for each type. If marketing emails get flagged, transactional ones stay safe. A /24 subnet on a dedicated server offers 253 usable IPs. That’s plenty for reputation management.

4. Power Virtualization and Containerization

Virtual machines (VMs) and containers need IPs. Host them on a dedicated server with multiple IPs. Give each VM its own public address. It’s perfect for testing or running isolated services. A /24 subnet supports up to 253 VMs. Scale your projects without limits.

Conclusion

A static IP is necessary for use cases such as setting home lab server, VPN and hosting. Your choice between a VPS and a dedicated server depends on your workload, budget, and scalability needs. A VPS is an affordable solution for small applications, VPNs, and hosting. A dedicated server is better for high-traffic workloads, multiple IPs, and large-scale virtualization. If you need a static IPv4 address, explore custom hosting solutions from Ucartz that provide dedicated IPs, subnet configurations and buy the server that fits your needs.